Is college marching band for music majors only?

No! The Southern Arkansas University band program consists of members from all university majors. College band is a great place to make friends and provides a social/peer group for all its members.

Aren’t scholarships only available for music majors?

NO! Just as admission into the program is not dependant on your major, neither is the scholarship award process. A majority of students that have university majors other than music receive scholarships ranging from partial to full tuition.

Are there before/after school rehearsals?

Not at SAU. The Mulerider Band rehearses four days a week during its scheduled class time from 12:35pm - 1:55pm on Tuesday and Thursday, and 12:05pm - 12:55pm Wednesday and Friday. Often, our performance schedule will allow some well-deserved time off.

Does the Mulerider Band have a “band camp?”

Yes! The Mulerider Band Camp starts a week before school begins. Camp information is mailed the first week of July to all members who have returned their registration cards. Guard and percussion come to SAU ten days before school starts. Students are able to move in for the semester the day of camp registration. Music rehearsals are held during the day and marching rehearsals are in the morning and at night. There is free time to set-up your dorm room, get to know the campus, and have fun. Meals and dormitory lodging for camp are paid by the band department.

How much does it cost to become a member of the Mulerider Band?

Mulerider Band members are paid for their membership! Costs for students are: gloves ($3.00) T-shirts ($15.00) and Knit shirts ($15.00). Mulerider Band pays for all trips, meals, and other fees.

Do I get credit for the Mulerider Band?

The Mulerider Band is a scheduled class for credit. You are graded primarily on attendance at rehearsals and performances.

How do I audition for Mulerider Band?

If you have been a successful member of your high school band program, you will be a successful SAU Band member. The audition process is very simple; students perform two etudes of varying styles or a solo which exhibits contrast on their instrument.

More Information:

Mulerider Marching Band
J.P Wilson, Director
P.O. Box 9385
Southern Arkansas University
Magnolia, AR 71754

Telephone: 870.235.4244